Sonora in the new U.S. expansionist scheme: Inbond industries and the Ford Motor Co

Abstract

This essay provides an interpretive examination of the nature and significance of the role played by U.S. capital in the economic life of the State of Sonora, Mexico during the past century, with special emphasis on the 1963-1988 period, which is particulary characterized by the most advanced forms of U.S. investment in that state. In order to conduct the analysis, inbond industries and the Ford Motor Co. were chosen as units of study. This paper attempts to ascertain what portion of the economic evolution of Sonora may be attributed to domestic capital, and what portion to foreign capital. In addition, it purports to demonstrate that the new U.S. presence has created a second front of reproduction, free from any major domestic influence.